Three British soldiers killed in Afghanistan in 24 hours

Three British troops have died in the space of 24 hours following separate battles with the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Two, from 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment were shot dead in the Nad-e Ali District of Helmand. Their families have been told.

The third was a Royal Marine who died on Monday after being airlifted back to Britain following a firefight on Sunday.

Lt Col James Carr-Smith, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: ”Both soldiers were part of security patrols that were involved in operations to improve freedom of movement for local nationals in Nad-e Ali, Helmand Province, when they were killed by small arms fire.

”Their bravery and boldness in the face of danger will not be forgotten. They died in the course of their duty, amongst their comrades and whilst improving the lives of ordinary Afghans. We will remember them.”